Liverpool are on the verge of landing the biggest kit deal in their history, with industry leaders Nike.
The club’s financial team have been immersed in negotiations with several of the biggest sportswear manufacturers over several months, are thought now to have struck a deal with the American brand.
The arrangement, which is due to commence next season, will eclipse the current contract with New Balance, which is worth around £45m a year.
A statement from New Balance on Monday night insisted that discussions over renewing their agreement next year are continuing.
New Balance state: “As a long standing and committed sponsor, we are keen to continue our strong partnership with Liverpool Football Club and are in ongoing discussions to renew our agreement in 2020.
"New Balance is eager and confident to maintain its sponsorship of Liverpool Football Club and we look forward to continuing our record of success as LFC’s playing kit provider.”
But it is understood the financial arrangement with Nike blows the current figure out of the water… leaving New Balance to all but accept defeat in their own talks.
Whilst Liverpool have refused to comment on the financial details, it is understood the whole package would revolve around a base contract level, and a fluctuating amount based on world-wide sales.
It would be the most lucrative in Anfield history, and will take the English club into the realm set by the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United, who have some of the biggest agreements with manufacturers.
Madrid earn almost £110m a year from their deal with Adidas, while Nike already sponsor Barca with a £100m a year agreement.
United were reported to have completed the biggest deal in Premier League history, with a £750m 10-year deal with Adidas signed in 2014.
Liverpool could conceivably outstrip that, as they maximise their massive current commercial value as European champions and Premier League leaders.
